Elegance and Purpose: The Magic of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights and Swiss Relief Foundation Gala in London

 

On the evening of the first of November, 2025, the magnificent Lancaster House in London set the stage for one of the season’s most refined and meaningful events the London Legacy Gala, co-hosted by Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK and the Swiss Relief Foundation, in celebration of the promotion of human dignity, education, and social justice.

As Editor-in-Chief of Monaco Woman, I had the honor of attending this exceptional soirée at the invitation of Valentina Cangiano, Board Member of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK, whose warmth and commitment to the Foundation’s mission made this evening truly memorable.

The Grace of Kerry Kennedy

Host and driving spirit of the event, Kerry Kennedy, President of the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights Foundation and daughter of Robert F. Kennedy, welcomed guests with her signature elegance and conviction.

Within the opulent neoclassical halls of Lancaster House overlooking the tranquil gardens of St James’s the atmosphere was one of refined solidarity and shared purpose.

The evening opened with a graceful cocktail reception, where diplomats, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, and cultural figures gathered to celebrate the universal values of liberty, education, and human dignity that lie at the heart of both organisations’ missions.

Honouring Christiane Amanpour

The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Senator Robert & Ethel Kennedy Speak Truth to Power Award to Christiane Amanpour CBE, the legendary CNN journalist and international correspondent, for her lifelong dedication to defending press freedom and human rights.

In her heartfelt acceptance speech, Amanpour emphasized the courage it takes to tell the truth, remarking that “in a world where misinformation can kill, honest journalism is an act of resistance.”

Her words resonated deeply throughout the room, reminding everyone that integrity remains the cornerstone of both journalism and justice.

Style, Values, and New Connections

The evening radiated understated sophistication. Candlelight and white-and-gold floral arrangements bathed the historic rooms in a soft glow, reflecting a perfect balance between style, culture, and ethical purpose.

During the gala dinner, a silent auction supported the humanitarian and educational projects of both foundations  a moment of generosity and collective engagement that underlined the evening’s spirit of purposeful collaboration.

Among the distinguished guests were:

• Federico Gatti, journalist renowned for his thoughtful reporting on social issues
• Andrea Atzori, Head of International Relations and CEO of Doctors with Africa CUAMM UK and author
• Rita del Curto, Art Sales Director and patron of the arts, who will be featured in the next issue of Monaco Woman with a special article dedicated to her and her artists
• Jason Drummond, Tech mogul and entrepreneur whose latest venture quoted in Stock Exchange, Medpal set to revolutionise the healthcare system in UK.

Representing Monaco Woman, I had the pleasure of exchanging ideas with these remarkable figures on how communication, art, and responsibility intertwine in today’s evolving concept of conscious luxury.

Elegance with Purpose

The evening at Lancaster House carried a clear and powerful message: true elegance lies in substance, not appearance.

As Kerry Kennedy beautifully stated, “The beauty of justice is in its humanity.”

That spirit infused the entire gala, transforming it from a social occasion into a platform for reflection, inspiration, and collective awareness.

In a world where luxury can sometimes appear detached from reality, the London Legacy Gala stood as a reminder that style and purpose can coexist and even amplify each other.

For Monaco Woman, it was more than an event; it was an experience of awareness, grace, and shared responsibility.

Acknowledgments

A heartfelt thanks to:

• Valentina Cangiano, for her kind invitation and tireless dedication as Board Member of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK
• Paolo C. Gheorghiu, Co-Founder of the Swiss Relief Foundation and Chair of the Board of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK, for his visionary leadership and commitment to building bridges between humanitarian action and human rights education
• Nichola Watson, CEO of Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK, who delivered a powerful and inspiring speech on the Speak Truth to Power program in the United Kingdom — a reminder of the transformative power of education and courage in action

Finally, heartfelt appreciation goes to the amazing teams of both Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights UK and the Swiss Relief Foundation — young, vibrant, and driven — whose passion and professionalism made this extraordinary evening of elegance and purpose possible.

Looking Ahead

As I reflect on this inspiring gala, I look forward to contributing to the future of this remarkable Foundation, continuing to promote awareness, compassion, and cultural dialogue.

Enjoy even more @rfkhumanrights @rfkhumanrightsuk

Edit by @Alessia Castelli

Editor  @Monaco Woman